219-Piece Chrysanthemum Flatware Service by Tiffany & Co.

The sheer brilliance of workmanship displayed in this antique 219-piece Chrysanthemum silver flatware service embodies the essence of the Tiffany & Co. name. Each piece bears the intricate motif of its namesake flower, and is nestled in its original oak chest. Chrysanthemum is considered among Tiffany's most beautiful and luxurious designs. The brainchild of renowned designer Charles T. Grosjean, the pattern incorporates traditional Baroque elements with a modern, natural motif. To find a set in such complete, pristine condition is truly exceptional.



Pieces are marked "TIFFANY & CO/STERLING/PAT. 1880 M" and bear the monogram "NBH."



Circa 1900



Case: 35 7/8" wide x 17 1/2" deep x 15 1/2" high



This service-for-12 comprises:

24 luncheon forks

24 luncheon knives

12 dinner forks

12 dinner knives

12 teaspoons

12 tablespoons

12 salad forks

12 cream soup spoons

12 bouillon spoons

12 ice cream spoons

12 cocktail forks

12 two-prong citrus forks

12 fruit knives

10 butter spreaders

6 medium serving spoons

4 large serving spoons

2 sauce ladles

2-piece parcel-gilt salad service

2 serving forks

stuffing spoon

ice tongs

fish server

ice cream server

berry spoon

master butter

flat pierced server

oyster spoon

parcel-gilt master salt spoon

preserve spoon

grape sheers



The Chrysanthemum pattern was introduced in 1878 and patented on September 21, 1880 (patent no. 11968) by Charles T. Grosjean, one of the most influential silversmiths in Tiffany's history. The son of a silversmith who immigrated to the United States in 1836, Grosjean's father sold pieces to Tiffany & Co. during the 1850s. The younger Grosjean joined Tiffany as the manager of the company's Prince Street silverworks and he quickly became a driving force in the overall success of Tiffany's silver business.



Grosjean's designs are among the most enduring of the Tiffany patterns and include Chrysanthemum, Lap-over-Edge, and English King. Chrysanthemum, however, found particular favor with Victorian socialites and new brides despite the fact that it was one of the most expensive of the Tiffany patterns to produce. The pattern was carried over to many forms of hollowware as well, which also enjoyed tremendous popularity. Chrysanthemum is still considered the top pattern Tiffany & Co. ever produced.



References:

Tiffany Silver, 1978, Charles H. Carpenter, Jr. and Mary Grace Carpenter

Tiffany Silver Flatware 1845-1905: When Dining Was an Art, 1995, William P. Hood, Jr.